In the structure of a muscle, several fascicles lie bundled together to form a muscle, just as several (BLANK) lie together to form compact bone tissue. Each muscle fiber. Which is a muscle cell, consists of protein fibers. Similarly, the matrix that lies outside bone cells consists of a protein fiber called (BLANK)
In the structure of a muscle, several fascicles lie bundled together to form a muscle, just as several (BLANK) lie together to form compact bone tissue. Each muscle fiber. Which is a muscle cell, consists of protein fibers. Similarly, the matrix that lies outside bone cells consists of a protein fiber called (BLANK)
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- Osteons
- Collagen
Explanation
In the musculoskeletal system, both muscle and bone have intricate hierarchical structures that contribute to their strength and functionality. Muscles are composed of bundles called fascicles, which are themselves composed of individual muscle fibers (muscle cells). These fibers contain myofibrils made up of protein filaments like actin and myosin that facilitate contraction.
Analogously, in compact bone tissue, the structural units that correspond to fascicles are called osteons, also known as Haversian systems. An osteon is a cylindrical structure that consists of concentric layers (lamellae) of calcified matrix arranged around a central canal (Haversian canal), which contains blood vessels and nerves. Just as multiple fascicles combine to form a whole muscle, several osteons pack together tightly to make up the dense, load-bearing portion of bone known as compact bone.
Each muscle fiber contains protein filaments crucial for its contractile function. Similarly, in bone tissue, the extracellular matrix is essential for providing strength and flexibility. This matrix lies outside the bone cells (osteocytes) and is composed of both mineral and organic components. The dominant protein fiber in this matrix is collagen, specifically type I collagen. Collagen fibers give bone its tensile strength and resistance to stretching, while the mineral component—mainly hydroxyapatite, a crystalline form of calcium phosphate—provides compressive strength.
Collagen in bone serves a function somewhat analogous to the protein filaments in muscle fibers; it is critical for structural integrity and biomechanical properties. Without collagen, bones would be brittle and prone to fracture. Without protein fibers like actin and myosin, muscles could not contract or generate force.
Thus, the analogy in the question highlights a structural and functional parallel: just as fascicles form a muscle, osteons form compact bone; and just as muscle fibers contain protein filaments, bone matrix contains the protein collagen.
